Wisconsin Rustic Roads, Fifth Edition 2012

• WISCONSIN• rusticroads

Fifth Edition, 2012 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 3, St. Croix County Governor’s Message Contents

Welcome Welcome 1 to a road system we What is a Rustic Road? 2 like to call Acknowledgements 3 a positive step backward. Locator map 4 Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads are quaint, lightly traveled country roads that Rustic Roads index 5 offer bikers, hikers and motorists Roads in the Northwest 6–25 a change from the often hectic pace of today’s world. The natural Roads in the Northeast 26–40 roadside features provide a serene Roads in the Southwest 41–48 and peaceful experience in a scenic setting, no matter what the season. Roads in the Southeast 49–76 The state’s first Rustic Road Program goals 77 was officially designated in 1975. Qualifications 77 Since then, the system has grown to 111 roads spanning 639 miles How to nominate a road 78 through 58 counties. The Wisconsin The designation process 78–79 Department of Transportation (WisDOT) oversees the Rustic Rustic Roads Board 79 Road program; however, the roads Administrative personnel 80 remain under local jurisdiction. Designation as a Rustic Road creates a unique state and local partnership of preservation and promotion. The collaboration invokes community The 2012 Guide to Wisconsin’s Rustic Road System is published pride, encourages tourism and fosters by the Wisconsin Department of economic growth around Wisconsin. Transportation, in cooperation with the Rustic Roads Board. Whether you are planning a Rustic Roads excursion or just happen to Cover photo: come across a designated route— Rustic Road 63, Sheboygan County @Estate of Bob Rashid we hope you enjoy the Wisconsin way of life…off the beaten path. Best wishes for a safe and memorable journey. Scott Walker Governor 1 What is a Rustic Road?

The Rustic Roads system in Wisconsin was created by the 1973 State Legislature in an effort to preserve what remains of Wisconsin’s scenic, lightly traveled country roads for the leisurely enjoyment of bikers, hikers and motorists. To qualify for the Rustic Roads program, a roadway must have outstanding natural features along its borders. These might include rugged terrain, native vegetation and wildlife, or open areas with agricultural vistas that make the road unique. The road should be a lightly traveled, local access road. It should not be scheduled for major improvements which would change its rustic characteristics. A Rustic Road may be a dirt, gravel or paved road. It should be at least two miles long with a maximum speed limit of 45 mph. Unique brown and yellow signs mark the routes of all officially designated Rustic Roads. Each road is numbered. To avoid confusion with the state highway number, a letter “R” prefix is used with the number—such as R-50 or R-120.

Bob Rashid was a friend of the Rustic Roads program and a gifted photographer. Through Bob’s book of photos and essays entitled Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads and a subsequent Wisconsin Public Television show, he introduced many of us to the road less traveled. Through his photos, Bob portrayed the Rustic Roads in a different way, inspiring exploration for ourselves. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is proud to honor Bob’s memory by featuring his photography in this publication. We also acknowledge the generous contributions of other talented photographers who captured the seasonal beauty of Wisconsin's Rustic Roads.

3 Locator Map

This guide divides Wisconsin and its Rustic Road system into four quadrants. The map below shows the four quadrants, as well as the county in which each Rustic Road is located.

BAYFIELD

DOUGLAS ASHLAND Northwes IRON

100 VILAS WASHBURN SAWYER 95 79 108 60 98 80 111 PRICE FOREST FLORENCE BURNETT 15 ONEIDA 71 105 58 74 NortheasMARINETTE POLK 59 93 BARRON RUSK 28 83 LINCOLN 34 18 62 LANGLADE 32 101 41 67 TAYLOR OCONTO 103 78 97 ST. CROIX DUNN CHIPPEWA 1 44 38 3 6 MARATHON MENOMINEE 39 13 CLARK 4 9 PIERCE 73 109 92 89 EAU CLAIRE 47 SHAWANO 77 107 DOOR PEPIN 45 51 WOOD PORTAGE WAUPACA KEWAUNEE TREMPEALEAU BUFFALO 76 OUTAGAMIE 46 57 8 7 JACKSON 17 23 24 61 40 53 BROWN MANITOWOC 54 JUNEAU ADAMS WAUSHARA WINNEBAGO CALUMET 16 91 MONROE 48 LA CROSSE 102 50 MARQUETTE GREEN 72 LAKE SHEBOYGAN 64 31 14 26 22 82 VERNON 104 FOND DU LAC 63 56 SAUK COLUMBIA DODGE 55 RICHLAND WASHINGTON 49 106 OZAUKEE 21 69 110 33 52 DANE 65 CRAWFORD JEFFERSON WAUKESHA IOWA MILWAUKEE 96 10 42 GRANT 70 84 Southwes 75 1920 88 87 86 2 5 GREEN ROCK WALWORTH RACINE LAFAYETTE 81 25 37 68 85 99 27 11 12 KENOSHA 30 94 90 35 43 66 29 36 43 Southeas

4 Rustic Road Index

R-1...... 6 R-31...... 43 R-61...... 37 R-91...... 48 R-2...... 49 R-32...... 29 R-62...... 13 R-92...... 19 R-3...... 7 R-33...... 58 R-63...... 64 R-93...... 19 R-4...... 7 R-34...... 30 R-64...... 45 R-94...... 72 R-5...... 49 R-35...... 59 R-65...... 64 R-95...... 20 R-6...... 8 R-36...... 59 R-66...... 46 R-96...... 73 R-7...... 26 R-37...... 60 R-67...... 13 R-97...... 39 R-8...... 26 R-38...... 30 R-68...... 65 R-98...... 21 R-9...... 27 R-39...... 30 R-69...... 66 R-99...... 48 R-10...... 50 R-40...... 31 R-70...... 47 R-100..... 21 R-11...... 51 R-41...... 11 R-71...... 14 R-101...... 22 R-12...... 51 R-42...... 60 R-72...... 67 R-102...... 74 R-13...... 8 R-43...... 61 R-73...... 14 R-103...... 22 R-14...... 52 R-44...... 31 R-74...... 37 R-104.....74 R-15...... 9 R-45...... 11 R-75...... 47 R-105...... 23 R-16...... 52 R-46...... 32 R-76...... 15 R-106.....75 R-17...... 27 R-47...... 33 R-77...... 38 R-107 ....24 R-18...... 9 R-48...... 61 R-78...... 39 R-108.....24 R-19...... 53 R-49...... 62 R-79...... 16 R-109.... 40 R-20...... 53 R-50...... 62 R-80...... 17 R-110...... 76 R-21...... 41 R-51...... 12 R-81...... 67 R-111...... 25 R-22...... 54 R-52...... 63 R-82...... 68 R-23...... 28 R-53...... 33 R-83...... 17 R-24...... 28 R-54...... 43 R-84...... 69 R-25...... 55 R-55...... 44 R-85...... 69 R-26...... 42 R-56...... 45 R-86...... 70 R-27...... 55 R-57...... 34 R-87...... 71 R-28...... 10 R-58...... 34 R-88...... 71 R-29...... 56 R-59...... 35 R-89...... 18 R-30...... 57 R-60...... 36 R-90...... 72

5 • R-1 Location: Taylor County, Northwestbetween WIS 102 and County D near Rib Lake. Length: 5 miles Surface: Gravel Wisconsin’s first Rustic Road was dedicated in 1975. A historical marker alongside the road commemorates the designation. R-1 crosses through hills and valleys created by the last Wisconsin glacier nearly 12,000 years ago. Timms Hill National Trail, connecting the nearby Ice Age Trail with R-62 and Timms Hill Observation Tower nine miles to the north, is open year round for hiking, skiing and snowshoeing. A public beach is located at South Harper Lake.

DAVE MEISS Along Rustic Road 1, Taylor County 6 • R-3 Location: St. Croix County. R-3 beginning at WIS 128 and follow the outer edges of a watershed and county park. R-3 is Jerdheim Road between WIS 128 and County E, south of Glenwood City. Length: 3.6 miles Surface: Paved This narrow road borders the heavily wooded Glen Hills County Park area, as well as privately owned farm land. The blacktop road curves over many hills with open views of farmland to either side. Picnic at the nearby county park, or enjoy the beach on Glen Lake. A bike trail is posted along the route.

• R-4 Location: St. Croix County. South of Glenwood City beginning at WIS 128 south to its intersection with County W. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Gravel R-4 runs south parallel to R-3 and borders the east side of the Glen Hills Watershed Park area. Beautiful fall colors mark the road in autumn, along with many coniferous trees. Watch for glacial rock formations and wild turkeys.

7 Ken Zingg Rustic Road 6, Chippewa County • R-6 Location: Chippewa County. County E, from the junction of WIS 64 north to the Chippewa-Rusk County line. Length: 13.3 miles Surface: Paved R-6 is part of the old Flambeau Trail, an important route for early settlers traveling north. The road traverses county forest lands and a part of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve in Chippewa County.

• R-13 Location: St. Croix County. Trout Brook Road between County A and River Road. Length: 3 miles Surface: Paved The third road to be designated in St. Croix County passes through hilly terrain along the western edge of scenic Willow River State Park. This route meanders through heavily wooded areas past several artesian wells.

8 • R-15 Location: Burnett County. Skog Road between Fish Lake Road and Hickerson Road. Length: 5.4 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions R-15 is close to Governor Knowles State Forest to the north and the Fish Lake State Wildlife Area to the south. This route offers beautiful vistas of coniferous and hardwood trees. Several hiking trails intersect with the road. R-15 is within a quarter-mile of the St. Croix River, a National Wild and Scenic River.

• R-18 Location: Barron County. 23rd Street, 15¾ Avenue, 25th Street and 17¼ Avenue beginning and ending at County M. Length: 6.8 miles Surface: Paved Dense stands of white oak, aspen and birch line this narrow rustic road. The nearly five-mile loop begins and ends on County M.

9 • R-28 Location: Polk County. Mains Crossing (old Highway 8), beginning at the intersection of County H then extending east to County D. Length: 5.2 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions Passing Apple River Park and crossing the scenic Apple River, this route is characterized by pleasant views of deciduous forests and open farmland. Located along the route are three small churches, two cemeteries and the Apple River Town Hall.

MIAE KIL Along Rustic Road 28, Polk County 10 MARILYN MATHISON Along Rustic Road 41, Polk County • R-41 Location: Polk County. Clara Lake Road between County E and County G. Length: 2.3 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions This road wanders past scenic woodlands and farmlands. Clara Lake Road passes the Hunky Dorey Resort, built in 1902 and still in operation. A canopy of trees shade the gravel portion of this beautiful road.

• R-45 Location: Eau Claire County. Goat Ranch Road from County H. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Gravel Goat Ranch Road is a narrow, scenic, gravel roadway carved through the heart of the Eau Claire County Forest. Watch for deer and other wildlife.

11 • R-51 Location: Pierce County. Portions of 20th Avenue from County CC to County AA. Length: 4.3 miles Surface: Gravel Located near rolling agricultural farmland, this narrow, winding, gravel road frequently crosses a trout stream in the midst of dense woodlands. At the intersection of 20th Avenue and County CC is a lovely old church dated 1881. Just a few miles south of County CC is a wayside historical marker and a replica of the house where Laura Ingalls Wilder grew up. She wrote about this house in the book Little House in the Big Woods.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 51, Pierce County 12 • R-62 Location: Price County. County RR, beginning at the intersection of County C, northeasterly to the intersection with WIS 86. Length: 2 miles Surface: Paved Although this rustic road is short in distance, it is long in aesthetic quality. R-62 offers the only access to Timms Hill County Park, the highest point in the state of Wisconsin. Hikers will enjoy the Timms Hill National Trail and nearby Ice Age Trail. Bass Lake, which borders R-62, teems with Northern Pike.

• R-67 Location: Barron/Polk counties. Portions of Pine Road, 13 3/4 Avenue, West County Line Road and 16th Avenue, forming a loop from US 8 to US 63. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions R-67 winds through woods and wetlands, along fields and forests, and around the edge of Skinaway Lake. Wildlife and wildflowers abound. This route provides a quiet, picturesque adventure through the northwestern Wisconsin countryside.

13 • R-71 Location: Washburn County. Lake Road and Little Stone Road between WIS 70 and County A. Length: 2.2 miles Surface: Paved R-71 skirts the western shore of Stone Lake where deer, raccoons, loons and other waterfowl can frequently be seen. The trees along the route form a graceful arch overhead creating a tunnel of green over much of this two-mile Rustic Road.

• R-73 Location: Clark County. Robin Road and Cloverdale Avenue between County N and County P. Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Gravel R-73 is a gravel road nestled between quiet woodlands and picturesque dairy farms. An old one-lane wooden bridge, which residents refer to as the “High Bridge,” is located on Robin Avenue. It spans the railroad tracks. Near the intersection of Cloverdale Road and Sparrow Road is a pasture that is home to a herd of majestic buffalo. Travelers might also view an occasional Amish horse-drawn buggy.

14 DIANE LUCHTERHAND Along Rustic Road 76, Clark County • R-76 Location: Clark County. Portions of Columbia Avenue, Middle Road, Fisher Avenue, Sand Road and Bruce Mound Avenue between US 10 and County B in the town of Hewett. Length: 9 miles Surface: Gravel R-76 meanders through Clark County Forest land. The traveler may see deer, sandhill cranes, wild turkeys and possibly a bald eagle. There is an abandoned trestle bridge used for recreational purposes over Wedges Creek on Middle Road. At the south end of the township on Fisher Road is the “Lone Grave Marker,” the last remaining evidence of the community of Columbia, which dates back to the 1880s.

15 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 80, Burnett County • R-79 Location: Burnett County. Glendening Road beginning at WIS 35 and ending on County F. Length: 1.2 miles Surface: Paved R-79 is a quiet, scenic road which is under a canopy of oaks. The well known Gandy Dancer Recreational Trail, used by hikers, bikers and snowmobilers, bisects this route. Glendening Road crosses the Yellow River just east of the Danbury Wildlife Area.

16 • R-80 Location: Burnett County. County E beginning at the intersection of County A and paralleling McKenzie Lake until its intersection with Tokash Road near the Washburn County line. Length: 2.1 miles Surface: Paved R-80 is a winding road with gentle hills that border beautiful McKenzie Lake. Tall majestic oaks canopy the road during the summer months. Ducks, bear, deer and eagles are often visible throughout the year. The road is often used by pedestrians and bicyclists for recreational purposes.

• R-83 Location: Barron County. 13 3/4-16th Street/Narrow Gauge Road between County V and 30th Street at the Barron/Washburn County line. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Paved R-83 is in the town of Bear Lake and is on Narrow Gauge Road, so-called because it follows the route of an old railroad line used in the logging era. The route meanders through 4,100 acres of Barron County forest land and intersects the Ice Age Trail. Narrow Gauge Road passes through diverse terrain with native wildlife and vegetation.

17 • R-89 Location: Dunn County. Portions of Hofland Road, 410th Street and 420th Street between County P and 370th Avenue, the town line road. Length: 4.7 miles Surface: Paved This scenic road winds south from Menomonie through the bluffs of the Red Cedar River. R-89 parallels the Red Cedar Bike Trail; once a railroad bed, now a popular recreation trail. Halfway along the route is Devil’s Punch Bowl—a miniature canyon with a small waterfall created by the last glacier 12,000 years ago—now a 2.9 acre scientific area.

Ken Zingg Rustic Road 89, Dunn County

18 • R-92 Location: Pierce County. Happy Valley Road (also known as 770th Avenue and 910th St) to Pleasant View Road (also known as 710th Avenue) east until its intersection with County 0. Length: 4.1 miles Surface: Paved R-92 is a lovely, winding and hilly route that takes the traveler though a canopy of basswood, elm, maple and oak trees for part of the route—giving the traveler a feeling of entering a peaceful tunnel. During spring and summer, the sides of the road are lined with green foliage and wildflowers such as Dutchman’s breeches, bloodroot, chamomile and hepatica. Rolling farm fields and steep tree-covered hills add to the beauty of the road.

• R-93 Location: Polk County. Chippewa Trail from 145th Street to County GG. Length: 2.8 miles Surface: Gravel R-93 is a beautiful country road that meanders through a wooded area in northwest Wisconsin in the town of Luck. A tree canopy covers the majority of this road. Chippewa Trail also curves around many ponds and wetland areas. Wildlife such as turkey and opossum abounds in this area and can be viewed by hikers, bikers and motorists. Local lore is that the Chippewa Indians used this route in pre-settlement times as they traveled between Butternut and Bone Lakes. Note: It is recommended that travelers unfamiliar with the area access R-93 at County GG. 19 • R-95 Location: Bayfield and Sawyer counties. The route begins at the intersection of WIS 77 and Federal Forest Road (FFR) 203 in the town of Spider Lake and continues on a six-mile loop off FFR 203 comprised of FFR 622 and Tews Road/FFR 206. The route continues into the town of Namakagon on Lost Land Lake Road and terminates at County M. Length: 16.4 miles Surface: Gravel The Lost Land Lake Route (R-95) passes through the Chequamegon National Forest. Along with scenic forest views, visitors are apt to see a variety of wildlife including deer, bear and possibly even wolves and elk. There are numerous bike, ATV and snowmobile trails that cross the route, including the Lynch Creek Trail that leads to a wildlife-viewing platform.

Rustic Road 95, Bayfield and Sawyer counties 20 Ken Zingg Rustic Road 100, Iron County • R-98 Location: Burnett County, towns of Oakland and Swiss. Beginning at the junction of WIS 35 and Old 35 near Danbury, the route proceeds along CCC Road to Hayden Lake Road, forming a loop back to WIS 35. Length: 8 miles Surface: Paved R-98 passes several lakes, features prairie lands and canopied trees, along with abundant wildlife including waterfowl, deer, bear and eagles. • R-100 Location: Iron County. County G from the Michigan/Wisconsin border, continuing south along County H to Mercer. Length: 13.5 miles Surface: Paved Wisconsin’s 100th Rustic Road features numerous lakes and waterways, wildflowers and wildlife, including deer and wolves. The route follows part of the historic Flambeau Trail— Iron County’s first transportation route serving Native Americans.

21 Ken Zingg Rustic Road 103, St. Croix and Polk counties • R-101 Location: Polk County. County S forming a loop off WIS 35 between Osceola and St. Croix Falls. Length: 4.3 miles Surface: Paved R-101 features oak, cedar and pine trees, a trout stream, rock outcroppings and a variety of wildlife as it parallels the St. Croix River. The Osceola and the Chisago Trailheads are adjacent to the road. The traveler will also pass by the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Ranger Station and Maintenance facility. • R-103 Location: St. Croix and Polk counties. Portions of 230th Avenue, Marine Road, County Line Avenue and Polk/St. Croix Road through the town of Somerset in St. Croix County and the town of Farmington in Polk County. Length: 2.8 miles Surface: Paved and gravel Continued on page 23 22 This route leads to the historic Somerset Landing—a river access point in the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway that features a boat launch and other amenities. R-103 features sandstone bluff outcroppings, tree canopies, prairie and farm views. A snowmobile route crosses Polk/St. Croix Road and a marked bike route connects to R-103 at 40th Street.

• R-105 Location: Price County. Forest Road 148 (Smith Rapids Road) and 144 (Shady Knoll Road) forming a loop off WIS 70 and Forest Road 535. Length: 13 miles Surface: Paved and gravel This 13-mile loop off WIS 70 winds through the scenic Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Wildlife viewing, forests, scenic farmland and views of the rambling South Fork of the Flambeau River enhance the drive. On Forest Road 148, the traveler will pass through the beautiful Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, which spans the river, and pass by the adjacent equestrian campground and trails. The traveler will also encounter the restored historic 1876 logging dam on Forest Road 535.

Ken Zingg Rustic Road 105, Smith Rapids Covered Bridge, Price County 23 Ken Zingg Rustic Road 107, Dunn County

• R-107 Location: Dunn County. 160th Avenue, 650th Street and 50th Avenue from County O to County M, town of Peru. Length: 6.7 miles 85 Surface: Paved and gravel

R-107 follows the 85 Chippewa River. The traveler will find wooded areas with canopies over the road that open up to meadows and picturesque views. There are numerous water resources, with wetland habitat throughout. The Red Cedar Bike Trail crosses the route at two locations and connects to the Chippewa River Trail providing trail access to the entire area.

• R-108 Location: Sawyer County. Northern Lights, Boedecker, Seely and Janet roads from WIS 63 to County OO, towns of Lenroot and Spider Lake. Length: 3.4 miles Surface: Gravel Continued on page 24 24 R-108 meanders through the Sawyer County Forest and is bordered by many species of trees including maples, oaks, birch, red and white pine which are home to many birds and mammals. Originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps as a logging road in the 1930s, travelers will catch a glimpse of the old “Dynamite Shack” which stored the explosives used to construct the road through the hills. R-108 is crossed by the Birkebeiner cross country ski trail and numerous ATV, mountain bike and snowmobile trails. This road offers all nature lovers a northwoods experience.

• R-111 Location: Sawyer and Ashland counties. Portions of County S, Moose Lake Road, Forest Road 174 and Forest Road 164 south of WIS 77. Length: 25.5 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions R-111 traverses through the Nicolet-Chequamegon Forest. Near Moose Lake Road and County S there is a scenic river view. This route has rolling hills covered with many types of trees making it a popular destination to view fall foliage. Wildlife abounds with wolf packs, elk, deer and wild turkey.

Charles Rayala Rustic Road 111, Sawyer County 25 Along Rustic Road 8, Brown County

• R-7 Location: Kewaunee County. Includes Northeastportions of Hrabik Road, Cherneyville Road, Sleepy Hollow Road and Pine Grove Road between WIS 29 and AB. Length: 3.5 miles Surface: Paved This route wanders past the remains of an old lime kiln, travels through glacial deposits and affords views of an old German home, an old flour mill and several picturesque barns.

• R-8 Location: Brown County. R-8 makes a loop off County IR, following Sunrise Road, Pine Road and Westview Road. Length: 3 miles Surface: Paved Located in the village of Suamico, R-8 wanders between stands of hardwood and coniferous trees that stretch along its length near a county park.

26 • R-9 Location: Door County. County T (Glidden Drive), between Brauer Road and Whitefish Bay Road. Length: 6.7 miles Surface: Paved Located along the Lake Michigan shore, this route passes through sand dunes, heavy forest and streams that are natural spawning grounds for trout and smelt. Other sites include an old saw mill, fishing site, log cabin and a panoramic view of Lake Michigan with a beautiful sand beach.

• R-17 Location: Portage County. Otto Road from US 10 west to Morgan Road, then south on Morgan Road to County T. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Paved This scenic route south of Amherst passes through hilly, rugged terrain, forests and fields, offering glimpses of native wildlife. R-17 also crosses a boulder- strewn section of the Tomorrow River.

27 • R-23, • R-24 Location: Waupaca County. R-23 begins in the town of Rural, and travels west on Rural Road through Hartman Creek State Park, ending at Hartman Creek Road. Length: 3.6 miles Surface: Paved Location: R-24, Emmons Creek Road, extends west from Rural Road to the Portage County line. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions Scenic Rural Road crosses the Crystal River three times over picturesque stone bridges, offering pleasant vistas of agricultural and forest areas. Emmons Creek Road crosses a springfed trout stream and passes through several stands of native pine and hardwoods.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 24, Waupaca County 28 Ken Zingg Rustic Road 34, Forest County • R-32 Location: Marinette County. Parkway Road from County W north to County C, then on County I to US 8. Also Goodman Park Road from County I to the park entrance. Length: 37.1 miles Surface: Paved Wisconsin’s longest rustic road, R-32 offers a 37-mile journey through several county parks, county and state forest, and offers vistas of the Thunder and Peshtigo rivers, and High Falls and Caldron Falls flowages. Multiple species of hardwoods and conifers can be viewed along the route, along with numerous granite boulders, outcroppings and abundant wildlife.

29 • R-34 Location: Forest County. From the village of Alvin, follows portions of Lakeview Drive, Carey Dam Road and Fishel Road to WIS 70. Length: 8.8 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions Located in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, this scenic route includes the Old North Road, the very first road in the town of Alvin and one which has changed very little over the years. The road leads through a heavily wooded area, including a 50-year-old pine plantation abundant with wildlife and ideal for hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing and snowmobiling.

• R-38, • R-39 Location: Door County. R-38, Cana Island Road, extends from County Q to Cana Island. Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Paved Location: R-39, Ridges Road runs from WIS 57 to Point Drive and the Old Lighthouse Point Natural Area. Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Paved Between Moonlight Bay and North Bay, R-38 passes through a unique boreal forest filled with magnificent specimens of spruce, cedar and white pine as well as various species of rare and valuable plants. The route provides scenic views of Cana Island Lighthouse and the Lake Michigan shoreline. R-39 provides panoramic views of heavily wooded and lakeshore areas. Old Lighthouse Point Natural Area and the Ridges Sanctuary Wildlife Area are outstanding wildlife areas featuring many rare native plants.

30 Rustic Road 40, Brown County • R-40 Location: Brown County. County J to County FF. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Paved R-40 passes near Trout Creek offering the traveler views of natural woodlands with deep ravines, as well as picturesque open farmland.

• R-44 Location: Marinette County. Right-of-Way Road from Sumac Lane east to County X. A second branch of Right-of-Way Road extends southeast to the Porterfield Lake town line. Length: 6.5 miles Surface: Paved Right-of-Way Road crosses two creeks and is adjacent to a state wildlife refuge and Marinette County Forest land. According to the Loomis Historical Society, R-44 was originally part of the Wisconsin-Michigan Railroad.

31 Rustic Road 46, Brown County • R-46 Location: Brown County. Old Plank Road forms a loop west of WIS 57. Length: 1.3 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions Old Plank Road is characterized by ravines, large old trees and a narrow road surface. It dates back to Civil War times when it was used to carry supplies to the Fox River.

32 • R-47 Location: Shawano County. County M, between County Q and US 45. Length: 14 miles Surface: Paved Featuring open agricultural vistas against a backdrop of wooded hills, R-47 is a traveler’s delight. Historic buildings along the route include a round barn, red granite town hall and a stone filling station. The road crosses two streams and passes conifer glens, wetland vegetation and rolling fields. County M also passes the Tigerton Historical Museum and the Wittenburg Historical Museum.

• R-53 Location: Outagamie County. Portions of Garrity Road, McCabe Road, Greiner Road and Bodde Road between WIS 41 and County JJ. Length: 4.1 miles Surface: Paved R-53 is located in one of the richest agricultural areas in the Fox River Valley. Visitors will find a double arch bridge, an old schoolhouse which serves as the town hall, a century farm, an old stone silo, Apple Creek and a resource conservation area abundant with wildlife. Construction of this road dates back to 1857.

33 • R-57 Location: Waupaca County. South Foley Road and Town Line Road between US 10 and WIS 54. Length: 4.1 miles Surface: Paved The Ice Age National Scenic Trail follows this route. A log house used by hikers is located on the South Foley Road segment. The scenic beauty of R-57 is enhanced by rolling hills and an arch of trees over the road at two points. Deep ravines directly off the road are accented with ferns and a variety of wild flowers. Bluebirds and other wild song birds are regular visitors to the large apple orchard along both sides of South Foley Road. The Waupaca River flows along a portion of the road; the rapids can be heard at the Cobbtown Road bridge.

• R-58 Location: Oneida County. Blue Lake Road, west from US 51 to Mercer Lake Road, and Mercer Lake Road, north from Blue Lake Road to WIS 70. Length: 9.6 miles Surface: Paved Blue Lake Road skirts many scenic Northwoods’ lakes while wandering through thick pine and hardwood forests. This route crosses a railroad bed that was used in the 1800s as a main line to Minocqua. It has now been converted to the Bearskin State Trail for hiking and bicycling. Where Blue Lake Road intersects the Tomahawk River, you’ll find an ideal spot for launching a canoe. The Northwoods beauty continues along Mercer Lake Road as it travels across two small creeks, through cedar lowlands and dense pine and hardwood forests before intersecting with WIS 70.

34 Rustic Road 59, Oneida County

• R-59 Location: Oneida County. Sutton Road and Camp Pinemere Road between WIS 70 and Blue Lake Road. Length: 4.5 miles Surface: Gravel, gravel and sand and paved portions R-59 can be characterized as a lightly traveled Northwoods wilderness road. Along this route you will see log cabins used by some of the original homesteaders in the Minocqua area. Sutton Road, whose narrow roadbed is a mixture of gravel and sand, travels through hardwood and pine forest offering frequent glimpses of native wildlife.

35 • R-60 Location: Vilas County. County K, between County N and County M. Length: 11.7 miles Surface: Paved This winding route travels through the Northern Highland/ American Legion State Forest. Canopies of coniferous and hardwood trees enhance the scenic beauty of R-60 as it passes near old logging camp sites, hiking trails and an old saw mill located in Star Lake. The entire stretch of this scenic drive traverses heavily wooded areas abundant with wildlife. R-60 offers frequent scenic vistas of numerous, clear Northwoods lakes and dense forestland.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 60, Vilas County 36 • R-61 Location: Outagamie County. County MM between County M and WIS 76. Length: 3.3 miles Surface: Paved This road offers an interesting combination of historic and scenic features. Many wooded areas, wetlands and agricultural uses are adjacent to the road’s 3.3-mile course. R-61 crosses several streams and stretches along several wetland areas that are part of the Wolf River watershed. Several large white pines can be spotted along this road, often in combination with large stands of trees.

• R-74 Location: Florence County. Between WIS 139 and County C near the town of Fence. Length: 32.5 miles Surface: Gravel Located within the scenic Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, R-74 abounds with deer, songbirds and other wildlife. R-74 passes the former Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) Camp Newald which operated from 1933–1942. This route crosses the Popple River, a designated Wisconsin “Wild River.” It is also near Morgan Lake Campground, a National Forest semi-wild campground.

37 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 78, Copper School, Lincoln County • R-77 Location: Door County. County TT running northerly to the intersection of Lake Michigan Drive. Length: 3.5 miles Surface: Paved R-77 parallels Lake Michigan with a Coast Guard station and lighthouse at its southern end. Many types of trees including cedar, maple, white birch and pine line the route. A municipal park is also located along R-77. It was from this spot that Native Americans “portaged” from Lake Michigan to Sturgeon Bay before the ship canal was constructed.

38 • R-78 Location: Lincoln County. Tesch Road, beginning and ending on County E. Length: 4 miles Surface: Paved R-78 meanders through hardwood trees and across the New Wood River. The northern portion of this route is adjacent to the Bill Cross Rapids Wildlife Area which is home to eagles, osprey, deer, bear, wolves, mink and otter. The traveler will see Copper School, an historic one-room schoolhouse, at the southern end of the road.

• R-97 Location: Marinette County, town of Middle Inlet. Sweetheart City Road and Creek Road forming a loop off County X near the intersection of US 141 and County X. Length: 5 miles. Surface: Paved and gravel A curvy, hilly route passing through many wooded areas that often form a scenic canopy over the road, R-97 also offers some outstanding agricultural vistas, abundant wildlife and a view of a small lake.

39 Rustic Road 109, Oconto County

• R-109 Location: Oconto County. North Park Avenue Road, beginning at County S in the city of Oconto and ending at Maple School Grove Road in the town of Little River. Length: 2.3 miles Surface: Paved R-109 is referred to by some local residents as “Wisconsin’s Everglades” because the road runs through a large complex of coastal wetlands that ultimately connect to the Oconto Marsh. Along some parts of the route, travelers will see majestic cattails that line both sides of the road, as well as blue flag iris, swamp milkweed, marsh fern and lowland grasses. In the middle of the route, the trees lining the road form a graceful canopy that arches over the road. R-109 also has a century farmstead visible from the road.

40 • R-21 SouthwestLocation: Sauk County. Just off County PF, follows portions of Schara Road, Ruff Road, Orchard Drive and Slotty Road. Length: 8.6 miles Surface: Gravel Ruff Road, Orchard Drive and Slotty Road are narrow, gravel roads. They wind through rolling, rugged terrain near Natural Bridge State Park. The park is the location of the Raddatz rock shelter, the oldest documented site of primitive man in the upper Midwest. Schara Road extends along a ridge bordered by oaks, maples, basswoods and hickories. Remains of an old barn and home foundation are visible from the road. A walk during the spring and summer reveals many wildflowers along the roadside and in the open fields.

41 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 26, La Crosse County

• R-26 Location: La Crosse County. County MM, beginning and ending at US 14 and US 61. Length: 5.3 miles Surface: Paved La Crosse County MM combines beautiful scenery and history. It offers the traveler views of the Mississippi River Valley and the Mormon Coulee Creek Valley. “Brinkman’s Ridge” provides a panorama of the Mississippi River, including the wildlife refuge at Goose Island. This route also passes the 1854 Oehler Mill site, as well as a century-old root cellar.

42 • R-31 Location: La Crosse County. R-31 travels on several streets in the village of West Salem to County C, north to WIS 16, then loops around Swarthout Lakeside Park, back to WIS 16. Length: 2.6 miles Surface: Paved R-31 travelers can view a pair of historic homes: the Gullickson Octagon House, on the National Register of Historic Places, and the Hamlin Garland Homestead, where the late Pulitzer prize- winning author, who was born near West Salem, did much of his writing. Other points of interest include the former home of Thomas Leonard, founder of West Salem, and Swarthout Lakeside Park, a recreation area near Lake Neshonoc.

• R-54 Location: Jackson County. North Settlement Road, from County O north to WIS 54. Exit off I-94 at the Millston exit. Length: 12.3 miles Surface: Paved This road travels through the Black River State Forest which boasts beautiful hardwood stands and pine tree plantations. R-54 follows a portion of the Wazee Trail past the Pigeon Creek Campground and the Dike 17 Lookout Tower where miles of marsh are visible. Sandhill cranes, bald eagles, ducks, geese and other wildlife are abundant. The traveler may see a variety of plant life including spaghnum peat moss beds and native wildflowers.

43 • R-55 Location: Vernon County. Tunnelville Road, beginning at its junction with WIS 131 to its intersection with County SS. Length: 2.8 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions In the spring, Tunnelville Road is characterized by fields of trillium. In summer, ferns and wildflowers line the steep road edges. The fall foliage is always colorful, and in winter the traveler will appreciate the views of the hillsides covered with snow.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 56, Vernon County 44 • R-56 Location: Vernon County. Portions of Dutch Hollow Road, Sand Hill Road, Hoff Valley Road and Lower Ridge Road. R-56 begins at the intersection of Dutch Hollow Road and WIS 131, extending to the intersection of Lower Ridge Road and WIS 131. Length: 8.6 miles Surface: Paved This route offers many scenic views including Wildcat Mountain State Park, Amish farms, log cabins, a round barn and examples of contour farming.

• R-64 Location: La Crosse County. Northwest of Holmen, R-64 makes a loop off US 53/WIS 93, following Amsterdam Prairie Road and Old 93. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Paved Located near the Van Loon Wildlife Area, this route offers a rather unique combination of historic transportation, architecture and scenic views. From Amsterdam Prairie Road, it is possible to enter by foot historic McGilvray Road, also known as 7-Bridges Road. McGilvray Road is on the National Register of Historic Places because of its seven rare bowstring-arch bridges.

45 • R-66 Location: Lafayette County. Just off County W in the town of Benton, following portions of Buncombe, Kennedy, Beebe and Ensch roads. Length: 7.5 miles Surface: Paved Beautiful scenery and history distinguish this Rustic Road. R-66 travels the unglaciated “Driftless Area” of southwestern Wisconsin. Tree-lined roads wind through the hilly fields and farmlands. In autumn, R-66 displays spectacular fall colors. An abandoned lead mine, complete with tin shacks, rusted ore buckets and piles of tailings, is visible from Kennedy Road. The mining industry in this part of Wisconsin once produced 85% of the nation’s lead.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 70, Grant County 46 • R-70 Location: Grant County. Leave US 61 at Liberty Ridge Road; portions of Hill Road, Ridge Road, Sleepy Hollow Road, Scenic Road to County E. Length: 10.1 miles Surface: Gravel R-70 meanders through the contour-stripped farms and the tree-covered hills of the Platte River Valley. Liberty Ridge Road passes a church built in 1861 by German settlers, then ambles into the quaint community of Stitzer. The other branches of R-70 pass through the rambling countryside. One of the few remaining one-room schoolhouses in the area is located on Scenic Road.

• R-75 Location: Iowa County. Portions of Ogden Road, Bromley Road and Turnbull Road between County A and County G in the town of Mifflin. Length: 3.7 miles Surface: Paved R-75 is located in the “Welsh Settlement” area, so named because immigrants from Wales settled in Iowa County during the mid 1800s. The countryside is beautiful during all seasons. Wildflowers and wildlife abound.

47 PAUL ROKUS, JR. Rustic Road 91, Trempealeau County • R-91 Location: Trempealeau County. River Drive, forming a loop off WIS 54. Length: 5 miles Surface: Unpaved River Drive is a scenic, unpaved loop between WIS 54 and the Black River. It crosses over Grant Creek and passes through river bottoms alternating between wild, wooded areas and open farmland. Drive slowly; you are likely to spot stately sandhill cranes as well as wild turkey and deer.

• R-99 Location: Grant County, town of Potosi. Segments of River Lane, Slazing and Brewery Hollow roads forming a loop off WIS 133. Length: 3.4 miles Surface: Paved The route reflects the region’s beer-brewing history and features hills, bluffs and rolling farmlands along with various types of wildlife. The River Lane Road segment represents the only Rustic Road section that follows the Mississippi River.

48 • R-2 SoutheastLocation: Racine County. North from Burlington along Honey Lake Road, Maple Lane and Heritage Road to County D. Continuing north along Maple Drive to WIS 83. Length: 7.9 miles Surface: Paved Under a canopy of trees, this route provides vistas of rolling fields and dairy farms. There is a marsh with waterfowl, muskrat houses and other wildlife in the Wehmhoff Woodland Preserve. • R-5 Location: Racine County. Loomis Road beginning at WIS 164, north to Fries Lane and the intersection of Fries Lane and WIS 36. Length: 3.1 miles Surface: Paved Loomis Road was originally laid out as a territorial road in 1840 and retains much of its original rustic lines. This route passes Col. Heg Memorial Park, which commemorates Wisconsin’s top-ranking officer killed in action during the Civil War. A museum in the park honors the heritage of the area’s Norwegian settlers and their contribution to Wisconsin’s development. There is also a small log cabin, built in 1837, then moved to the park in 1928.

49 • R-10 Location: Waukesha County. R-10 includes portions of County B and Mill Road between County P and Main Street. Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Paved This curving trail rides the narrow isthmus between Upper and Lower Nashotah Lakes, then runs south past Upper Nemahbin Lake. The broad fields of Pabst Farms and the remainder of its once-famous dairy barns lie to the west. To the north of Mill Road, the red-tiled spires and gables of Nashota House Seminary can be seen.

Ken Zingg Rustic Road 11, Walworth County 50 • R-11 Location: Walworth County. To the east of Lake Geneva, R-11 includes South Road, Steel Road, Spring Valley Road and Knob Hill Road between WIS 50 and WIS 36. The route adjoins R-12 and R-36. Length: 10.3 miles Surface: Paved This gently winding route provides excellent views of glacial Kettle Moraine topography. R-11 passes through large wooded areas of oak, maple and hickory, with glimpses of a game farm and scenic agricultural land.

• R-12 Location: Walworth County. This route includes Back Road, Sheridan Springs Road, Spring Valley Road and Church Road, between WIS 50 and WIS 36 adjoining R-11 and R-36. Length: 5.7 miles Surface: Paved At various points the road offers panoramic views of lush green hills and valleys. The sharply curving route passes outstanding Kettle Moraine formations, pine and spruce plantations, a tamarack swamp and several ponds. R-12 crosses the White River and runs through the community of Lyons with its several quaint churches.

51 Rustic Road 14, Adams County • R-14 Location: Adams County. Ember Drive between County A and County B. Length: 2 miles Surface: Gravel This thickly forested area supports a multitude of wildlife and wildflowers. The road winds up through a cleft on top of a bluff. A natural spring runs from the top of the bluff down the side of the road to the east.

• R-16 Location: Manitowoc County. Sandy Bay Road runs along Lake Michigan from County V, south to the corporate limits of Two Rivers. Length: 5.2 miles Surface: Paved This gently winding route runs through Point Beach State Forest. R-16 is bordered on either side by thick groves of deciduous and coniferous trees. Sandy Bay Road offers many glimpses of birds and other wildlife, as well as open vistas of natural sand dunes, including juniper bushes and other types of shrubbery.

52 • R-19 Location: Dane County. North from County B on Lalor Road to Goodland Park Road. Length: 2.3 miles Surface: Paved Bordered on either side by native prairie plants, including numerous stands of wild plum and scattered wild asparagus, R-19 crosses Swan and Murphy Creeks and borders the Waubesa Wetlands preserve. Set back in the evergreens along one side of the road is the William Lalor Farm, originally purchased from the government in 1846. The original deed was signed by President James Polk.

• R-20 Location: Dane County. Dyreson Road, from Schneider Road north to County AB. Length: 2.9 miles Surface: Paved Rich in heritage, Dyreson Road travels through fertile farmland and wooded areas. The road offers an excellent view of Lake Kegonsa as it crosses County B. Historic Dyreson Bridge over the Yahara River is the site of early Indian and pioneer crossings and is adjacent to ancient Indian effigy mound sites. Nearby wetlands provide glimpses of native waterfowl, fish and wildlife. Also located on the road is Dyreson House, an early Wisconsin homestead listed in the Wisconsin State Historical Society’s Inventory of Historic Places.

53 • R-22 Location: Green Lake County. White River Road from County D to Big Island Road, north of Princeton. Length: 5.5 miles Surface: Gravel and paved portions This picturesque road passes through the DNR White River Marsh Wildlife Area. Abundant with wildlife, this road crosses Sucker Creek and the White River on a pair of new bridges.

© Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 22, Green Lake County 54 • R-25 Location: Racine County. Oak Knoll Road from County DD to its junction with County D. Length: 2.6 miles Surface: Paved Adjacent to the Honey Creek Wildlife area, this road passes the Franklyn Hazelo Home (c. 1858), listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

• R-27 Location: Green County. Park Road forming a loop off of County F. Length: 4.3 miles Surface: Paved Along this scenic and historic route you will find the Decatur Town Monument historical marker as well as Indian campsites, the oldest home in Decatur and the Decatur Lake and dam. With its excellent views of high bluffs and dense woods, Park Road travels through some of the most beautiful landscape in the area. The Sugar River State Bicycle Trail is nearby.

55 © Estate of Bob Rashid Woods along Rustic Road 29, Walworth County

• R-29 Location: Walworth County. Snake Road, from the intersection with WIS 50 in the city of Lake Geneva, west to the intersection with WIS 50 in the town of Geneva. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Paved This loop is located in a countryside of natural beauty. Bounded in some places by split rail fencing, R-29 passes through an area of native vegetation and wildlife near Lake Geneva that is particularly beautiful in autumn.

56 • R-30 Location: Racine County. Includes portions of Hillcrest, Hanson, Division and Malchine roads between County K and WIS 36. Length: 2.3 miles Surface: Paved This route passes through woods, rolling meadows and lowland marshes abounding with native vegetation and wildlife. Along the route is a historic one-room school house.

Jesse Clark Rustic Road 30, Racine County 57 • R-33 Location: Washington County. Portions of St. Augustine Road, Monches Road, Emerald Road, Shamrock Lane and Donegal Road; this loop lies between County Q and County K. Length: 12.1 miles Surface: Paved This winding, hilly route passes through a natural kettle area. While the area is mainly devoted to agriculture, R-33 offers travelers a view of the church spires atop Holy Hill, a well-known seminary in southeastern Wisconsin. Another section of the road offers a view of Lowe Lake.

Rustic Road 33, Washington County

58 • R-35 Location: Rock County. Serns Road between County N and North John Paul Road in the town of Milton. Length: 2.7 miles Surface: Paved Stretching north out of the town of Milton, Serns Road traverses picturesque and gently rolling agricultural terrain.

• R-36 Location: Walworth County. Includes Cranberry Road and Berndt Road east from WIS 50, adjoining R-11 and R-12. Length: 3.6 miles Surface: Paved and gravel This narrow, hilly route got its name from early settlers who harvested cranberries from nearby marshes. R-36 winds through Wisconsin farmland, glacial marshes and knobs. It features a wide variety of trees and shrubs.

59 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 49, Sauk and Columbia County • R-37 Location: Racine County. Three Mile Road, beginning at 108th Street east to its intersection with County U. Length: 1.8 miles Surface: Paved Numerous old oak trees and rail fences border this winding route. It has never been widened, nor has its basic course been changed since it was originally laid out in the early 1800s.

• R-42 Location: Racine County. Hoosier Creek, Wheatland and Brever Roads between County Highway JB and WIS 142. Length: 5.7 miles Surface: Paved A canopy of large oak and black walnut trees grace Wheatland Road, just south of WIS 142. Travelers to this area will enjoy the open agricultural and marsh vistas as well as an old brick farmhouse and several barns. Hoosier Creek Road is a half-mile away from the Fox River, providing fishing areas and panoramic views. Note: For safety reasons, Hoosier Creek Road (near County JB) is closed at the railroad tracks and is no longer a continuous north-south route.

60 • R-43 Location: Racine and Kenosha counties. County B from WIS 142 in Kenosha County to WIS 11 in Racine County. Length: 3.7 miles Surface: Paved Passing through open agricultural land with few residences, this route provides direct access to the Bong Recreational Area.

• R-48 Location: Waushara County. 26th Road, beginning at County H northwest to County W. Length: 2.1 miles Surface: Paved This road curves among rolling hills, typical of the ground moraines found in Wisconsin’s central plains region. R-48 passes through the valley of the Pine River, a Class II trout stream. Much of the agricultural land and fallow fields found along this route support ring-necked pheasants, sandhill cranes, deer, red fox, beaver, otter and a wide variety of song birds. A log cabin and two farmhouses, built before the Civil War on 160-acre Homestead Act grants, are visible from R-48.

61 • R-49 Location: Sauk and Columbia counties. Levee Road, beginning at County T in Sauk County east to WIS 33 in Columbia County. Length: 9.8 miles Surface: Paved Levee Road travels through the Aldo Leopold Reserve along the Wisconsin River. Motorists, bikers and hikers can see prairie grasses, wildlife, trees and marsh along the river’s south shore.

• R-50 Location: Adams County. Cottonville Avenue (Old State Road), from 8th Avenue east to 4th Avenue. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Unpaved The locals call Cottonville Avenue “Old State Road” because it was laid out by the state, probably in the 1800s. Vistas along this road include native lowland and upland trees, shrubbery and marshes. Wild birds, deer and grouse abound.

62 • R-52 Location: Washington and Ozaukee counties. Portions of Paradise and Washington Drives, Wausaukee, St. Augustine, Bluegoose and Knollwood Roads between County M and abutting County Y south of Newburg. Length: 6.7 miles Surface: Paved and gravel This wooded, rural road is located in one of the highest points in Washington County and offers a scenic panorama of the surrounding countryside. There are several historical buildings and farmsteads including a log home and an old fieldstone house dating to the late 1800s. While on Blue Goose and St. Augustine Roads in Ozaukee County, travelers will go past portions of the Cedarburg Bog State Natural Area—one of the largest and most biologically diverse wetland areas in Wisconsin.

Rustic Road 52, Washington and Ozaukee counties

63 Rustic Road 63, Sheboygan County • R-63 Location: Sheboygan County. County S, WIS 23 north to the town of Glenbeulah. Length: 2.4 miles Surface: Paved and gravel portions County S rests on the remains of glacial sand and stone. The glacial soil here is so poor, you’ll notice several old farm fields being reclaimed by trees and shrubs. The last portion of R-63 is old forest with steep Kettle Moraine hills and curves. The Rustic Road route ends at the village limits of historic Glenbeulah. The Wade House State Historic Site and the Wesley Jung Carriage Museum are both must-see attractions.

• R-65 Location: Ozaukee County. Hawthorne Road between Wauwatosa Road and Granville Road in the city of Mequon. Length: 2 miles Surface: Gravel Hawthorne Road is the only gravel road in the city of Mequon. Much of the road is lined with oak, Continued on page 64 64 maple and weeping willow trees that provide a canopy in the summer and a blaze of color in the fall. The open land along R-65 is under cultivation or is pasture land for horses and sheep making pleasant agricultural vistas. The area surrounding the road is habitat for deer, rabbits, hawks and songbirds. The road is popular with hikers, bikers, equestrians and motorists.

• R-68 Location: Rock County. Riley Road, from County Line Road to US 14. Length: 5.7 miles Surface: Paved R-68 passes through woodlands, rolling meadows and lowland marshes abounding in native vegetation and wildlife. The route passes two historic houses: the 1850s Stebben’s House and the Richardson Grout House. At the south end of Riley Road a wayside park offers rest and relaxation.

Ken Zingg Rustic Road 68, Rock County 65 • R-69 Location: Columbia County. Old Agency House Road, from East Albert Street to the north end near the Old Indian Agency House. Length: .75 miles Surface: Paved R-69 travels along the historic Portage Canal. On one side of the road, wetland habitat harbors Sandhill cranes, Great Blue herons and many other birds. The road leads to the historic Indian Agency House. Built in 1832, the house is open to the public. The northeast end of the road connects with the Marquette Trail where you can see the remnants of the Old Fort Winnebago Locks. The locks and canal joined the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers, making travel by water possible from Green Bay to the Gulf of Mexico.

Rustic Road 69, Columbia County 66 • R-72 Location: Winnebago County. Mountain Road, beginning and ending with County M. Length: 3.1 miles Surface: Paved and gravel R-72 offers great wildlife and wildflower viewing in a serene setting. Mountain Road passes through the middle of 270 acres owned by the Nature Conservancy. It is home to many birds including Sandhill cranes, Short-eared owls, Northern bobwhite, quail and pheasants. The traveler will encounter an abundance of wildflowers bordering the roadway including May apple, trillium, Canada anemone, wild geraniums, Solomon’s seal, wild roses and goldenrod.

• R-81 Location: Green County. Marty Road beginning at County H and ending with WIS 39. Length: 2.9 miles Surface: Paved R-81 is a designated bike trail. It travels most of its length along a ridge offering wonderful vistas of Wisconsin’s rolling hill country. The route is partially tree-lined with canopies of hardwood trees. Wildflowers and wildlife abound. Marty Road was constructed in the late 1800s as a farm supply conduit and five original farmhouses can be seen from the road.

67 • R-82 Location: Fond du Lac County. The River Drive route in the town of Ashford is situated between WIS 67 in the north and County W in the south. Length: 9.4 miles Surface: Paved R-82 is comprised of five roads: River Drive, Spring Drive, Rolling Drive, Cloverland Drive and Katzenburg Drive. This route takes travelers through wetlands, rolling hills, old-growth wooded areas and scenic agricultural areas.

NICHOLAS DAHLINGER Along Rustic Road 82, Fond du Lac County 68 DEBBE KROENING Along Rustic Road 85, Walworth County • R-84 Location: Jefferson County. Bark River Road in the town of Koshkonong beginning at Rock River Road and ending at County N. Length: 2.2 miles Surface: Paved R-84 parallels the Bark River. This route features wooded areas and agricultural vistas. In the summer, a popular stop for outdoor enthusiasts is the unique artesian drinking fountain located halfway along the route. Native vegetation and wildlife include deer, turkey, cranes, hawks and owls.

• R-85 Location: Walworth County. Includes portions of Kearney and Potter Roads, forming a loop off County DD in the town of Spring Prairie. Length: 2.5 miles Surface: Paved Potter Road runs adjacent to winding Sugar Creek as both pass through Nature Conservancy forests and wetlands. The steeply glaciated uplands of Kearney Road include a mix of farmlands and pine woodlots. 69 © Estate of Bob Rashid Rustic Road 86, Waukesha County

• R-86 Location: Waukesha County. Includes portions of Waterville Road, Town Road G, County ZZ, Strawberry and Piper Roads, from US 18 to WIS 59. Length: 7.3 miles Surface: Paved R-86 offers the traveler scenic views of rugged forest and open prairie as it meanders through the Southern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The Waterville Road route also provides access to the Ice Age Trail and the Scuppernong Hiking Trail.

70 • R-87 Location: Jefferson County. Includes portions of Creamery, McIntyre, Poeppel and Pond Roads from US 12 to WIS 26. Length: 6.8 miles Surface: Paved R-87 winds through hilly, active farmland interspersed with canopies of trees. Deer, wild turkey, cranes and hawks are frequently seen. The route also features a family cherry orchard and the historic South Koshkonong Cemetery. Mustang Ranch, the only riding stable in the country that features once-wild mustangs is nearby.

• R-88 Location: Jefferson County. Cold Spring Road from Carnes Road near County N to US 12. Length: 3.5 miles Surface: Paved R-88 travels through a gently rolling countryside of mixed farm fields and woods. In places, large oaks arch over the road. There are several very beautiful barns built close to the road. Near the south end, you’ll see a handsome, brick Victorian farmhouse in excellent condition. Along the route you can also see St. John’s Church built in 1884, the beautifully-kept Cold Spring Cemetery dating back to the 1840s and an historical marker commemorating Abraham Lincoln’s service in the Blackhawk War.

71 • R-90 Location: Green County. Portions of Preston, Mill and Kaderly Roads between County OK and County G. Length: 3.2 mile. Surface: Unpaved Local residents go out of their way to travel along this quiet country road. It offers stunning vistas of rolling countryside rising to distant hills. Stalwart 300-year-old oak, basswood, hickory and maple form a shady green tunnel in spring and summer that turns russet and gold in autumn. On County G, at the eastern end of this route, is a striking contrast of yesterday and today—a weathered old barn opposite a large, modern dairy operation.

• R-94 Location: Green County. Skinner Hollow Road from WIS 81 to County J in the towns of Jordan and Adams. Length: 4.6 miles Surface: Paved Skinner Hollow Road (R-94), offers scenic views of streams, valleys and wooded areas. Rich in history, the road’s name comes from one of the area’s first recorded lead prospectors, John B. Skinner. Various prospect diggings or “badger holes” are located along the area’s valley and many Native American artifacts have also been found. As the road crosses Skinner Creek, it passes through an area that was once a mill pond for one of the area’s early sawmills. Continued on page 72 72 Three cheese factories once operated along the road, although only one remains as a residence. The road overlooks prairie remnants, wetlands and rock outcroppings that provide habitat for abundant wildlife from bald eagles to sandhill cranes.

• R-96 Location: Dane County, town of Cottage Grove. Nora Road located off County N just south of Cottage Grove. Length: 3.6 miles. Surface: Paved R-96 is a mix of rolling hills, farmlands, woods and marshes inhabited by cranes, deer and a variety of other wildlife.

Rustic Road 102, Waushara County

73 • R-102 Location: Waushara County. Cumberland Avenue and 7th Drive forming a loop off WIS 21 in the town of Richford. Length: 2.2 miles Surface: Paved and gravel R-102 features roadside panoramas of native trees, prairies and dense woods that form a canopy in the spring and summer that turns golden in the autumn. This beautiful forest and field mix supports a multitude of wildlife including deer, red fox, pheasants and sandhill cranes, short- eared owls and many songbirds. Wildflowers such as wild geraniums, Solomon’s Seal and wild asparagus are abundant and Amish buggies are a common sight. The route offers access to the Mecan River segment of the Ice Age Trail.

• R-104 Location: Marquette and Columbia counties. 14th Road and Barry Avenue between County O and County CM. Length: 2.8 miles Surface: Paved This road passes over hills and valleys closely bordered by mixed hardwood forests and large cottonwood trees. Picturesque, century-old farms can be seen from several locations. The French Creek Wildlife Area and John Muir State Natural Area are nearby. There are remnant prairie patches and abundant wildlife along R-104.

74 • R-106 Location: Dodge County. Ledge, North Point, South Point and West Point Roads south of WIS 49 and County Z intersection, town of LeRoy. Length: 7.2 miles Surface: Paved and gravel R-106 has rolling hills and wonderful farm vistas. Parts of the route are adjacent to the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge. The Bud Cook Hiking Trail is accessible from West Point Road and has viewing scopes to see wildlife in the marsh. The southern end of West Point Road also provides access to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Educational Barn, where visitors can learn more about the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge.

Rustic Road 106, Dodge County, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Educational Barn

75 • R-110 Location: Columbia County. Portions of O’Connor, Van Ness and Chrislaw Roads between WIS 60 and WIS 113. Length: 5.9 miles Surface: Paved R-110 meanders through prime agricultural land interspersed with ponds and small lakes, marshland and rolling hills covered in trees. Wildlife abounds through the route. Outstanding fall foliage make R-110 a very good tour route.

Rustic Road 110, Columbia County

76 n n n n n n n n n Goals Program Roads Rustic The Qualifications n n n n n n n n n may establish a speed limit as low as 25 mph. low as as limit aspeed may establish authority However, Roads. governing Rustic local all the of 45mph on limit speed for amaximum law calls State roadway. the adjacent in, paths to, or incorporated one-wayhiking have or bicycle or two-way.also may They maybe or They paved. gravel dirt, Roads may be Rustics route. of the ends at both major to highways or connect loop, or closure completed a provide feasible, where and, miles of two length have Roads should aminimum Rustic characteristics. rustic their change would that for major improvements not Roads scheduled should be Rustic enjoyment. forrecreational foot on or bicycle auto, by traveling or those owners adjacent the property serve that roads access local traveled, lightly be Roads should Rustic roads. other from road apart this set uniquely combination or in singly which vistas agricultural with or open areas or vegetation wildlife, native terrain, borders: rugged its along features natural have Roads should outstanding Rustic control. billboard and regulations utility compatibility, use for land zoning Encourage standards. design and maintenance appropriate Establish qualities. scenic and rustic their preserving while travel public for roads safe these administer and Maintain public. general the residents and enjoyment of local leisurely and for roadways quiet the Identify travel. pedestrian and bicycle for vehicular, park-likeProduce system alinear, road. the with associated or man-made features natural or vegetation other native consider will criteria beauty. Selection or cultural natural exhibiting unusual or outstanding roads designated certain dition, con- undisturbed essentially and anatural in preserve, and Identify 77

RJ & LINDA MILLER To nominate a new rustic road As you drive, hike or bike the Wisconsin countryside you may discover a road you think should be included in the Rustic Roads program. The nomination process begins with local support. Build that support by talking first to local residents, government officials, civic and environmental groups. More specific information may be obtained by contacting your town chairman, your county highway commissioner, or one of the Rustic Roads Board personnel. To obtain necessary forms and further information, you may also contact: The Rustic Roads Program Wisconsin Department of Transportation PO Box 7913 Madison, WI 53707-7913 Phone: (608) 266-0649 www.dot.wisconsin.gov/travel/ scenic/rusticroads.htm

The designation process nnPetitions from resident landowners along the road or in the county or municipality in which the road lies are obtained and presented to the county highway committee or governing body of the municipality. The process can also be initiated by resolution of the governing body. nnThe local governing body offers to hold a public hearing on the proposed Rustic Road designation. nnUpon approval of the designation, the local governing body requests approval of the Rustic Rustic Road 106, Dodge County

78 Roads Board. Nomination materials should include photos or slides of the road showing its qualifications, along with the information outlined on the Rustic Roads description form. nnThe Rustic Roads Board reviews the application and has final approval authority over the designation. Its approval makes the designation official. nnThe designation processes described here are intended to show the general steps involved in nominating a Rustic Road when no jurisdictional change is required. Oftentimes, a jurisdictional change (local road becomes a county highway or vice versa) is desired. Under such circumstances, the jurisdictional change must precede the Rustic Road designation and follow all normal jurisdictional change procedures. Specific rules and procedures on Rustic Road designation may be obtained from the Rustic Roads program.

Rustic Roads Board A 1973 state law created the Wisconsin Rustic Roads Board within the Department of Transportation. This board is responsible for assisting in the establishment of the Rustic Roads system by developing rules and standards and exercising final approval authority for Rustic Road designation. The 10-member board represents a broad geographic base within Wisconsin, as well as state, county and local government and the general public.

Board Members Marion Flood, Chair Stevens Point, WI Daniel Fedderly, Vice Chair Boyceville, WI Raymond DeHahn Racine, WI Robert Hansen Monona, WI Senator Mary Lazich New Berlin, WI Bruce Lindgren Herbster, WI Alan Lorenz La Crosse, WI Representative Jerry Petrowski Marathon, WI Charles Rayala Manitowish Waters, WI Thomas Solheim Madison, WI

79 Administrative Personnel

Jane V. Carrola, Rustic Roads Program Coordinator Wisconsin Department of Transportation P.O. Box 7913, Madison, WI 53707-7913 Phone: (608) 266-0649 Fax: (608) 267-0294 Email: [email protected] www.dot.wisconsin.gov/travel/scenic/rusticroads.htm

Rustic Road 110, Columbia County